RAD vs MOD: AdLib FM Synthesis vs PCM Sample-Based Music Tracking
Compare Reality Adlib Tracker (.rad) 9-channel Yamaha OPL2 FM synthesis with Amiga ProTracker (.mod) 8-bit digital linear PCM sample tracking.
RAD uses Yamaha OPL2/OPL3 frequency modulation synthesis where sounds are generated algorithmically by 2-operator sine wave oscillators in real time. MOD uses digital PCM acoustic samples recorded from real instruments and played back with pitch shifting across 4 to 32 channels.
| FEATURE | RAD | MOD |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Generation | Yamaha YM3812 (OPL2) FM Synthesis | Digital Linear PCM Sample Playback |
| Typical File Size | 2 KB – 20 KB | 100 KB – 2 MB |
| Channel Count | 9 FM Channels | 4 to 32 Sample Channels |
| Hardware Emulation | Requires OPL2/OPL3 synthesizer engine | Standard PCM software mixer |
| Primary Ecosystem | MS-DOS Demoscene & Adlib Chiptunes | Commodore Amiga & PC Tracker Scene |
- Extremely tiny file sizes (typically under 10 KB per complete multi-minute song)
- Unique authentic retro chiptune and FM synthesizer character of 1990s PC gaming
- Real-time harmonic manipulation via FM modulator multipliers and feedback loops
- Zero digital sample quantization noise or memory overhead
- Can play any recorded acoustic, vocal, or synthesized sound with natural realism
- Universal tracker standard supported by hundreds of players and DAW software
- Independent of sound hardware chips; sounds identical on any soundcard
- Broad channel support from classic 4-channel Amiga to 32-channel PC tracker formats
RAD is ideal for authentic AdLib FM chiptune compositions with minimal storage footprint, whereas MOD offers flexible acoustic and multi-sampled tracking. convrtr synthesizes both formats into CD-quality 16-bit stereo WAV files entirely in your browser.
Converting files between RAD and MOD frequently? The convrtr Chrome Extension lets you right-click any image on any webpage or open the Side Panel to convert assets instantly using local WebAssembly with zero server uploads.